On March 27, 2008, the US Departments of State and Homeland Security announced updated Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) information affecting US Citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. 

As of June 1, 2009, traveling by land and sea within the Western Hemisphere countries listed above, U.S. Citizens will be required to present a US passport, passport card, or other WHTI compliant document to enter or re-enter the United States.

You will note that as of January 23, 2007, US Citizens, upon traveling to these same countries, by air are required to present a passport, passport card, or other WHTI compliant document to enter or re-enter the United States.

This announcement affects entry requirements into the United States.  Foreign countries have their own entry/exit requirements which frequently will mandate a passport.  Please check with the US Department of State's website (www.travel.state.gov) which includes country listings and links to the respective countries' websites so you can get the most up-to-date information on foreign entry requirements.

For more detailed information about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), please visit the websites of the US Departments of State and Homeland Security. 

If you are planning a trip abroad, it is recommended that you apply for a passport as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary delay.  If you have any questions regarding the passport application process, please contact Congressman Gilchrest's closest district office.